Preeclampsia is the condition of high blood pressure in pregnant women and is a common complication of pregnancy. Previous studies have shown either no association or have suggested a protective association between preeclampsia and cancer.
However a recent study shows that women with a history of preeclampsia have future concerns to be aware of. New research shows the condition brings with it an increased risk of cancer of the stomach, breast, ovary, lung and larynx.Researchers compared the incidence of cancer among more than 37,000 women. The incidence of breast cancer was significantly higher for preeclamptic women. The risk of cancers of the stomach, ovary, lung or larynx were also significantly increased after adjusting for age. Researchers found women who went on to develop cancer were older and were more likely to be non-Jewish or of European origin. In addition, researchers found that women of west Asian origin and lower social status were most likely to have preeclampsia.
Researchers suggest certain environmental and genetic factors may contribute to the development of both preeclampsia and cancer , they also say that diet, insulin resistance, smoking or patterns of infection may be common initiators of both conditions. However, the evidence is inconsistent.
